This year we have been blessed with much more rain and hay production than in a few years. That doesn't mean that what we have is quality hay across the board; rain does not equal good hay. Dietary requirements of livestock and horses must be maintained or they can fall to pieces with a belly full of poor quality grass. Dry cows need to maintain a minimum of 7% protein with lactating cows requiring around 11% to remain efficient. Knowing what nutritional value is in your hay will help you better understand if supplementation is needed and/or how much. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Newton and Jasper Counties will be hosting a Hay show and Forage Management program on Monday, October 8, 2012 at the Newton County Fairgrounds beginning at 6:30 pm. Dr. Larry Redmon, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension State Forage Specialist, will be the speaker for the event. If you want hay you have grown or purchased, bring samples by the Newton or Jasper County Extension office on or before September 21, 2012. Each sample will be tested for quality at Texas A&M for $10/sample for the first 2 samples and $5 for each additional sample. The results will be available at the hay show on October 8th. You do not have to submit a sample in order to attend that hay show. If you plan to attend the event the fee will be $20/person or $30/couple which will cover a meal and refreshments, handouts, and much more. There will be 2 CEU's available for those holding an applicator license. Please RSVP to the Newton or Jasper County Extension office by October 4, 2012 to allow time to plans meal and handout needs. The number to the Newton County Extension office is 409-379-4831 and Jasper County Extension office is 409-384-3721. This event will fill fast so please don't hesitate to reserve your seat.